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Eye Conditions – Sight loss in one eye

Sight loss in one eye

If you have lost sight in one eye, you will lose part of your side vision and, initially, you may have problems with depth perception. You can relearn how to see in depth, and within time your remaining eye can adjust.

Most people with sight in one eye can read printed information, watch television and perform many other day-to-day activities without any problems. However, if you have sight loss in one eye and have difficulty with performing tasks, you can seek advice from your doctor and contact NCBI for emotional support and practical help and advice on LoCall 1850 33 43 53.

Tips for people with sight loss in one eye

Here are a few practical tips that you may find useful in your everyday activities.

If going out for a meal, make sure that your friend or partner sits on your seeing side. Watch out for waiters serving on your blind side.

Distance judgement is needed to pour liquids accurately. To avoid spillage, rest the upper container on the rim of the lower one when pouring liquids.

You may find that you are bumping into things on your blind side. Always take a good look around before you make any sudden turns.

When putting a drink down, place your other hand on the table or surface and then place the drink next to it.

It can be difficult to judge the last step on a stairs. Move cautiously, feel ahead with your foot and keep your hand on the handrail.

You may find it useful to stop at road kerbs to judge their depth.

Magnifiers and telescopes can be helpful.

Large print books are often useful.

For up-close work, think about using task lighting, which is a strong, localised source of light; for example, a small, high-intensity lamp supplemented with general ceiling lighting.

Can I register as legally blind?

The level of vision in your better eye will be assessed. If you have good vision in your better eye then it is usually not possible for people with sight loss in one eye only to become registered as blind. The sight in the other eye often compensates for your loss of sight in one eye.

Frank Brady has written a book entitled A Singular View: The Art of Seeing With One Eye, which is based on his own experiences of managing in everyday life with vision in one eye following a flying accident. You can purchase a copy on Amazon or alternatively, you can borrow this book from our library service.

NCBI Local Support Workers
If you have not already done so, it may be helpful to contact your localNCBI Local Support Worker to arrange an appointment in your local NCBI office. A community resource worker can help you in a number of ways, including providing emotional support and offering practical advice and support in relation to your reduction in sight. Your community resource worker can also refer you to some of our other services that you may find useful.

Read an article from NCBI News about the personal experience of Mick Bourke, who noticed a change of vision in one of his eyes.